In the rugged landscape of Phoenix, where an active lifestyle is practically a prerequisite for residency, Dr. Nima Salari stands as a premier architect of spinal health. Practicing out of 1635 East Myrtle Avenue, Suite 400, Dr. Salari is a central figure at the Desert Spine and Scoliosis Center, where he treats the most complex pillar of the human body: the vertebral column.
Dr. Salari is a Yale-trained, fellowship-certified Orthopedic Spine Surgeon who has earned a reputation for "precision preservation"—the art of fixing the spine while protecting the patient's natural mobility.
The Vision: The Minimalist Surgeon
Dr. Salari is a leading advocate for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS). His philosophy is rooted in the belief that the best surgical outcome is achieved with the least amount of disruption to the surrounding muscle and tissue.
The "Keyhole" Approach: Utilizing advanced micro-surgical techniques that allow for major spinal repairs through incisions no larger than a thumbnail.
Scoliosis & Deformity Expertise: A specialist in correcting the complex curvatures of the spine in both adolescents and adults, restoring not just alignment, but confidence.
Non-Narcotic Recovery: A pioneer in "enhanced recovery" protocols that prioritize non-opioid pain management and rapid mobilization after surgery.
The Atmosphere: Mountainside Medical Excellence
Located near the base of the Piestewa Peak area, Suite 400 offers an environment that reflects the calm and strength of the surrounding desert.
A Hub of Specialized Care: Sharing a space with other elite spine specialists ensures a collaborative environment where "second opinions" are part of the daily culture.
Patient-Centric Technology: The office is equipped with high-fidelity imaging and diagnostic tools that allow Dr. Salari to map out a "digital twin" of a patient's spine before ever entering the operating room.
Why It’s Unique
What sets Dr. Nima Salari apart is his Academic Pedigree met with Western Innovation. As a researcher and designer of surgical instruments, he doesn't just use the tools of the trade—he helps invent them. He is the surgeon for the patient who wants a world-class intellectual who is as comfortable discussing the latest biomechanical research as he is discussing the best hiking trails in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve.
Orthopedic Spine Surgeon Board-Certified
Dr. Salari is a Board Certified, Fellowship Trained Orthopedic Spine Surgeon with specialized training in the operative and non-operative treatment of pathologic conditions affecting the spine. His treatment philosophy exhausts all means of conservative care and less invasive surgical techniques before ever recommending spinal fusion. He specializes in ultra-minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery and cervical artificial disc replacement. These surgical techniques are excellent spine fusion alternatives and have the highest patient satisfaction scores. Spine fusion alternatives are usually ultra or minimally-invasive tissue-sparing approaches that allow for the fastest recovery times and minimize postoperative pain.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Salari has been involved in various orthopedic research projects involving the musculoskeletal system. He has published numerous articles and book chapters on the topic of minimally invasive surgery. He has helped design surgical instruments and implants in use today for several international companies. He teaches national and international courses in the latest laser-assisted endoscopic techniques and image-guided surgeries. He serves as a contributing team physician for local collegiate and professional sports teams.
After spending his high school years in Germany, he enrolled in the Bioengineering program at the University of Pittsburgh. A University Scholar and on the Dean’s List, he graduated summa cum laude with honors in 2003. He then received his M.D. degree from Temple University and earned membership in the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Honor Society in 2006. Dr. Salari completed his Orthopaedic Surgery Residency at the renowned Johns Hopkins Hospital in 2012. He then went on to complete a fellowship dedicated to spine surgery at Stanford University.
He rapidly earned top marks with his patients (U.S.News, Healthgrades, Vitals, RateMDs, Yelp, WebMD) and peer recognition as a PHOENIX magazine “Top Doc” in 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023, 2024.
TOP important and interesting reviews from patients
- I can't say enough about DISC and Dr. Nima Salari. He helped me 10 years ago with excellent results and once again with a new issue.he is kind, concerned and a miracle worker! I don't have a complete understanding of the surgery I require, but my confidence in him is 100% with no questions asked. I can recommend him and his practice sincerely. If you are suffering...don't hesitate to get right in and get things done!! You will never have a regret, but you will have a better life!
- Efficient check in (on time), quick and efficient upload of my medical records disc, quick and complete medical history review by the PA. Plain English explanations of my situation and treatment options by Dr. Salari. We made a plan, he ordered additional tests and i was gone…extremely satisfied. Could NOT have been done any better or more efficiently. Dr. Salari and the entire staff were pleasant and obviously competent.
- I was very impressed with the front office when checking in. They were very polite and had a big smile when greeting me. The office was running on time, and I saw first Chris, the PA, and then Dr. Salari. Both were very personable and knowledgeable! Dr.Salari explained my condition after viewing my MRI and the type of surgery that would help me. Very kind physician! I will definitely recommend Dr. Salari and his office.
